Whether you are looking to stay at an intimate cabin in the woods or a massive vacation rental home, there is something for every type of traveler on Airbnb. This is especially true if you are searching for a unique experience that you can’t easily replicate at a five-star hotel or bed-and-breakfast — like the opportunity to sleep in a real cave.
Make no mistake: There is nothing prehistoric or rustic about these accommodations, even though many of their original structures date back hundreds (or even thousands) of years. These listings have been meticulously upgraded with all the modern touches you can think of, from indulgent four-posted beds to subterranean arcades. You will be wrapped in comfort but still get the best parts about living in a cave. These hideaways are naturally temperature-regulated, so you also never get too hot in the summer. Plus, the complete insulation from outside noise means that you’ll get to be with your own thoughts, and relax to the calming soundtrack of water streaming from a nearby creek or waterfall.
Ahead, we have compiled 9 cavernous stays that range from romantic to bucolic to downright kooky. Some of these cave Airbnbs are in Utah and Arizona, while others will take you further afield, to countries like Turkey, Italy, and Greece. One thing’s for sure, however. You’re about to get some killer views.
At Delhiites, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team.
Bedrock Homestead Cave

This multi-level cave home will show you what it truly means to live off-grid. The host, Grant, lives on the property year-round to tend to the farm animals, and the whole place is powered by hydroelectricity to reduce its carbon footprint. Guests that have spent time here raved about the private pool, where you can marvel at views of the ranch and dramatic Navajo sandstones at the back.

Location: Boulder, Utah, United States
Price Per Night: $355
Sleeps: 5

 

 

Anitya Cave House

You might have seen photos of Cappadocia, a region in Turkey famous for its magnificent rock formations and scenic hot air balloon rides. What you might not know is that the area is also packed with accommodations built into historic caves. This atmospheric Airbnb in the village of Ortahisar is a prime example. It comes with a terrace where you can take in the unbelievable landscape while enjoying a home-cooked Turkish breakfast.

Location: Ortahisar, Nevsehir, Turkey
Price Per Night: $109
Sleeps: 6

 

Chula Canyon Cavehouse

It took 15 years to finish building this massive cave house, and the end result is a truly one-of-a-kind stay that was worth the wait. The eclectic decor, tiled floors, and indoor plant collection is giving us serious movie set vibes, and its outdoor surroundings – which include deserts, waterfalls, and mountains – are equally mesmerizing.

Location: Bisbee, Arizona, United States
Price Per Night: $1,800
Sleeps: 8

 

Terracotta Cave House

In a sea of whitewashed traditional cave houses that can be found all around Santorini, the sunburnt orange exterior of this Airbnb listing really stands out. It’s tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Oia, despite just being a two-minute walk from the main drag, and boasts unreal views of the volcanos, caldera, and all of Oia Village.

Location: Oia, Santorini, Greece
Price Per Night: $248
Sleeps: 3

 

Crete Stone Villa

Formerly a family residence and storage unit for crops, this cave Airbnb has been thoughtfully restored and upgraded into a luxury villa. On top of the charmingly rocky surroundings, you will also love the views of the aquamarine waters of Kissamos Bay from your balcony, as well as the welcome gift basket stuffed with local honey, bread, raki, and all kinds of snacks (Crete is known as the foodie island in Greece, so this checks out).

Location: Chania, Crete, Greece
Price Per Night: $129
Sleeps: 3

 

Sasso Caveoso House

A picturesque city entirely carved into a hillside, Matera is a vastly underrated destination that didn’t end up on tourists’ radars until a couple years ago. Many of the caves here date back thousands of years but have been thoroughly updated with 21st-century luxuries. This apartment is carved into the white tufa caves in Sasso Caveoso. You can feel the calcareous stone walls for yourself, and cozy up by the fireplace or in the tall four-poster bed. Outside, the patio overlooks the rest of the historic town. You won’t find a more romantic spot to unwind.

Location: Matera, Basilicata, Italy
Price Per Night: $206
Sleeps: 4

 

The Cave-Inn

This adventurous hideaway is perfect for travelers who are kids at heart. Quirky decorating choices aside, the interiors are stacked with every fun pastime imaginable, from foosball tables to a mini arcade. You can explore nearby trails, or go on a guided tour of the desert landscape on the host’s ATV.

Location: Dolan Springs, Arizona, United States
Price Per Night: $164
Sleeps: 6

 

Sunset Cave House

As its name suggests, you will be spoiled with some seriously breathtaking sunsets staying in this old cave house. The interior spaces are framed by the iconic white arches synonymous with Santorini, and thanks to the off-the-beaten-path location, you’ll get your own slice of the island without all the foot traffic.

Location: Oia, Santorini, Greece
Price Per Night: $434
Sleeps: 3

 

La Grotta

This medieval cave in Tuscany is the type of gem that is rarely available. The spacious home gives you the best vantage point to marvel at Old Town Pitigliano, which looks straight out of a fairytale book. The decor is full of character, all shabby-chic drapery and exposed stone walls. It’s worth it to book just for the view alone.

Location: Pitigliano, Tuscany, Italy
Price Per Night: $65
Sleeps: 4